Cup Race Through The Years

November 18, 2004|CHRIS BURT and Material from other sources was used to supplement this report.

CHANGING TIMES

1992 -- In a time of Earnhardts and Waltrips and Elliotts, Alan Kulwicki offers an unexpected twist. He wins only five races in his career and needs every point to beat Bill Elliott (10) in the closest race in series history. He has 17 top-10 finishes, though, and two victories.

1993-94 -- Dale Earnhardt chases down history by posting back-to-back series crowns, tying Richard Petty for the most in history with seven. In 1993, he wins on the final race of the year, and in 1994, he becomes the fourth oldest series winner behind Bobby Allison (1983) and Lee Petty (1958-59).

1995 -- A new kid on the block? Jeff Gordon bursts onto the scene as the youngest champion in the modern era at 24 with seven wins and eight poles. What's amazing is that he beats Dale Earnhardt to do it, upsetting the Intimidator by only 34 points.

1996 -- Twelve years after earning his first series title, Terry Labonte does it again, albeit in unimpressive fashion. He secures just two victories, but the consistent Iceman has 21 top-five finishes and an incredible seven runner-ups during the season.